News

Haematology & Oncology Day Unit at Withybush officially opened

Published

8 years ago

January 30, 2017

Tom Sinclair

Official opening: Sara Edwards the HM Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed attended (middle)

OVER 300 locals attended an open event this weekend to get a first look at the county’s new Haematology & Oncology Day Unit at Withybush Hospital.

The Unit, which was officially opened by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Sara Edwards, is a tribute to the people of Pembrokeshire and the charities who have made it possible through their generosity and fundraising efforts.

Bernardine Rees, OBE, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board warmly welcomed patients and their families, charity and fundraising representatives, staff and partners.

She said: “I’m delighted that so many people have come along today to see the new facilities for themselves and discover what this exciting new development will bring to the people of Pembrokeshire.

“I give my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in this development – it’s a wonderful achievement which will benefit our local population for many years to come.”

Bernie George, Trustee of Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal, said: “We are so pleased to have played our part in making this happen and it was great that so many of the people and organisations who have donated significant funds to our Appeal were able to be with us to celebrate the opening.

“Our charity was also pleased to be able to provide the Unit with a series of Pembrokeshire wall prints and two very innovative glass wall art pieces which we hope patients and their families will appreciate when they visit.”

Chris Evans-Thomas, Founder of Adam’s Bucketful of Hope Appeal, added: “When I came in to see the unit and saw the state-of-the-art equipment and the beautiful art displayed throughout, I was overwhelmed and found the day a very emotional, but wonderful, experience.

“I would like to thank all our volunteers and the people of Pembrokeshire for their support over the years, as well as the staff who look after our loved ones – because of them all, patients will truly benefit from this magnificent facility…it really is out of this world.”

The unit will provide a better patient experience in a modern, purpose-built, fit for the future facility that is tailored for patients at different stages of cancer. There is a purpose built treatment area for patients (including an isolation facility), a counselling/quiet room, a dedicated multi-disciplinary room with video-conferencing facilities which could reduce the need for staff and potentially patients to travel; increased consultant treatment rooms; a patient reception point and additional waiting areas.

Dr Iain Robertson-Steel, Hospital Director, said: “This new facility is a great asset for Withybush Hospital and for Pembrokeshire and we look forward to welcoming patients into the unit from 6 February.

“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to our staff, partners, charity and fundraising representatives in the local community who have made this happen for our local population.”

The unit has been designed by staff and shaped together with patients, healthcare professionals, hospital managers, fundraisers and key stakeholders, including Hywel Dda Community Health Council, Adam’s Bucketful of Hope, Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal and Pembrokeshire Cancer Support.

Over £670,000 was raised for the project by the University Health Board’s Pembrokeshire Cancer Services Fund, Adam’s Bucketful of Hope and Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal. The estimated total cost of the project is in the region of £926,000, with the balance being met by the University Health Board’s discretionary capital monies.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

20 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

20 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

1 day ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”